Steve Smith's unexpected ODI retirement stuns fans following Australia's ICC Champions Trophy exit.

New Delhi: Australian cricketer Steve Smith has announced his retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket after a stellar performance in the ICC Champions Trophy semi-final against India. Smith shared his decision with his teammates after the match, stating that he will be stepping away from the ODI format with immediate effect. However, he will continue to represent Australia in Test matches and T20 Internationals. Smith leaves the ODI format as one of Australia's most successful and enduring players. Having made his debut in 2010 as a leg-spin all-rounder against the West Indies, Smith has played a total of 170 ODIs. He has amassed 5,800 runs at an impressive average of 43.28, with 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries to his name. Additionally, Smith has also taken 28 wickets at an average of 34.67 during his ODI career.

Smith, who was part of Australia’s ICC World Cup championship teams in both 2015 and 2023, took on the role of ODI captain in 2015. He served as captain in his last match on a temporary basis while Pat Cummins was unavailable.

Smith received recognition as the Australian Men’s ODI Player of the Year in both 2015 and 2021, and he was also part of the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year in 2015.

“It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it,” Steve Smith said.

“There have been so many amazing times and wonderful memories. Winning two World Cups was a great highlight along with the many fantastic team-mates who shared the journey.

“Now is a great opportunity for people to start preparing for the 2027 World Cup so it feels like the right time to make way.

“Test cricket remains a priority and I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies in the winter and then England at home. I feel I still have a lot to contribute on that stage.”

Todd Greenberg, CA Chief Executive said: “Congratulations to Steve on an amazing One Day International career during which he has made a vast contribution to Australia’s performances in the 50-over format.

“Right up until his final ODI innings Steve exhibited an incredible ability to accumulate runs in all conditions and his astute leadership has been crucial in the team’s ongoing success including the 2015 and 2023 ICC World Cup victories.

“We’re fortunate Steve still has much to offer in the Test and T20 arenas and I look forward to witnessing the next stage of one of cricket’s great careers.”

George Bailey, the chair of the men’s selectors, expressed that they completely comprehend and endorse Steve’s choice to retire from One Day International cricket.

“Steve has said on many occasions he is approaching the remainder of his playing career on a series-by-series basis, a position which hasn’t changed and one Cricket Australia supports.

“His record as a batter across 167 games is exemplary and to leave the format as a two-time World Cup winner cements his legacy as one of the great Australian ODI players.

“From an NSP standpoint, Steve remains fully committed to Test cricket and is an integral member of and leader within that team.”